After a prostatectomy with a urinary catheter, bladder spasms are expected. Which statement is true?

• A. They indicate infection.
• B. Bladder spasms are expected after a prostatectomy with a catheter.
• C. They require immediate catheter removal.
• D. They cause permanent incontinence.

Answer: (B)

Bladder spasms after catheterization are a normal postoperative response because the catheter irritates the bladder and urethra, which can trigger involuntary bladder contractions. This irritation is common after a prostatectomy, so spasms are expected rather than a sign of something worse. They are not a reliable indicator of infection; infection would typically present with systemic or urinary signs such as fever, foul-smelling urine, or marked urinary changes, not just spasms alone. Spasms also do not require removing the catheter—removing it prematurely can lead to urinary retention and complicate recovery. They do not cause permanent incontinence—the spasms are usually temporary and related to healing and catheter irritation. Management focuses on keeping the catheter patent, ensuring the drainage system is functioning, encouraging adequate fluids, and using prescribed antispasmodics or other comfort measures to relieve the spasms while the catheter remains in place.